Spot checks on cigarette vending machines

Trading standards officers in West Berkshire have been carrying out spot checks on cigarette vending machines.

An officer made random checks on 17 premises and found 15 machines were positioned so staff could supervise their use.

Advice was given in the two places where the machines were in the wrong location.

In a second survey of 10 premises with vending machines, 150 cigarette packets were checked and nine were found to be old stock not carrying new warnings – a legal requirement from October 1 last year.

Fair trading officer Liz Brunsden said: “These findings combined with recent encouraging test purchase figures, where only one retailer visited sold cigarettes to a young person, show that West Berkshire retailers are aware of their responsibilities regarding the sale of tobacco.

“In addition to test purchasing and enforcement surveys of this type, we are always happy to provide advice and training.”

The council runs a training scheme which now has 200 members.

Anyone who wants to know more about the tests should call 01635 519930.